Budget Cuts In Education Fills House, Simon Lake On Cutting Block

Last night at 7:00P.M. Acting Superintendent of schools Cummings, put on a public presentation to an auditorium filled with with parents. Usually these events are at city hall, but this year there was so much anxiety over over kids being affected with moves, busing issues, mega schools and the like the event had to be put into the auditorium.

Sadly I arrived a little late, and for the first time in my memory I was told by the Fire Marshall "the auditorium is full you must go upstairs to the overflow area." The overflow area had about 20 people there, and after Mr. Cummings presentation I was able to gain access to the auditorium where Steve filmed some of the highlights of the meeting.

In attendance were all the major media networks, all the local papers and about 1,000 people from our community most of which were teachers, community leaders and parents. The tone of the audience was mostly directed to the Board of Education who was on-stage taking public questions.

The general public balked at the continuous problem of year after year cuts in the school system due to the education budget going up each year. Some parents just wanted stability for their kids and felt the school board was not doing enough to deliver on the promises they made during their campaigns.

Mark Stapleton said "that the Board of Education is at the Mercy of the Board of Alderman and can only work with the money they approve," he directed the audience to "take their concerns to the Board of Finance and the Board of Alderman to have the funds restored."

Under the present budget Mr. Cummings recommended his Fourth proposal that would result in closing Simon Lake School. This notion, or idea irked many kids and parents who said they "loved" their neighborhood school.

Acting Superintendent Cummings assured the audience that despite the closing he would ensure that "AP classes would not suffer.. and overall class sizes for all students would not be significantly affected" but warned that any "further cuts by the board of finance would negatively impact teacher jobs and the quality of education in Milford."

The video below is some of the highlights filmed by Steve Borer of the Milford Independent Party.



Some asked for my thoughts so here they are...

My Reply To Tim Chaucer Leading High School Merger Opposition

After work yesterday I retrieved my mail from my mailbox and of course threw the bills on my desk and read the newspaper. The area that I like most is the local commentary and letters to the editor that Jill Dion so very nicely posts.

Steve Borer warned me some time ago that Tim Chaucer was going to have issues with the idea of High School mergers, and his article this week cited several reasons why this is a bad idea including the "Columbine Massacre" the nature of a "well balanced school district" and of course "Sports participation."

While I see Mr. Chaucer as an important part of this debate, and in my extensive 45 Minute conversation with him last week expressed my joy at him being the "Devils advocate" on the Milford education debate, I took issue with him. I believe that his type of contribution is important and will be needed in order that the logistics of these school mergers be responsibly worked out, but challenge some of his outmoded thoughts.

Some of Mr. Chaucer's concerns in my opinion are outdated and rely on the technology and methodology of the past. They fail to take into consideration the advances in educational learning, green school design and social interaction models between kids.

While Mr. Chaucer points to the "Columbine Massacre from years back" I have been learning about more pressing and modern threats that have no boundaries. This threat aptly known as “Cyber bullying” has been a world wide phenomenon and is very dangerous for today's kids. It recently led to the induced suicide of Phoebe Prince and made national news. These problems have nothing to do with school size or the types of issues that Chaucer is concerned about.

In my previous article below it can be noted that "Cyber bullying" work in Milford is already ongoing thanks to the student efforts put forth by Jennie Sharp and Janet Gargliano of Milford. The era of Columbine mass-murders really is an invalid argument, it's more of a scare tactic that may lead one to believe in a false conclusion.

This is not to say that Milford has not had its share of young people die, however these incidents are not emblematic of our schools but rather out of town kids using Milford as a place to exact revenge against other problem youths. These incidents do not reflect negatively on our schools but rather emphasize that school security and the tenuous view of it by our kids indicates it's of minimal concern.

Certainly there are issues that must be addressed in education, but in my view the most serious problem I see is the destabilization of the traditional social model that once kept the Grand List Receipts in check with Infrastructure, Maintenance and teacher job security.

As America and Milford continues to de-industrialize and our tax base continues to endure a sustained economic attack by global forces, our little city will continue to live with an unacceptable level on insecurity. Some cases in point, the Milford Mall (the cities largest taxpayer) would have been in bankruptcy had they not won a 12% abatement in their taxes, and still yet even with that abatement one of its largest tenants who pays in excess of $720,000.00 a year in rent may face bankruptcy before years end 2010.

Let’s take this and add it to the problem of Sikorski and its associated pressure to move to a more business friendly state. Consider every shareholder meeting whereby the CEO is held to the fire about profits and return on profits to investors. Most of the United Technologies investors or Sikorski's for that matter could care less about Milford. They demand profitability and what is better for the shareholder than to compel the CEO to move our states heavy industry to Mississippi or Louisiana to improve profitability and investor return.

We all see what happens when heavy industry moves on, just look at the ghost of an economy that once lived in Bridgeport. Taxes skyrocket, grand lists plummet, and cities face severe financial strain.

This year and in today's paper our Superintendent announced he will be closing a school a decision that I support. One thing Chaucer and I agree on is that teachers not buildings are this town’s greatest asset. Buildings are expense laden places that in time develop maintenance costs that aggravate the loss of precious teacher jobs.

The epiphany is upon us, our nation is mired in debt and the nation is moving toward extremist revenue procuring methods to stay afloat. Combine this with the fact that CERC a consulting firm that makes demographic predictions is showing a population decline in Milford in the next decade.

While some may welcome population declines, others find them troubling because they represent a disproportionate share of future tax burdens that cannot, and should not, be redistributed to sustain an outmoded educational system.

Fortunately for us, the solution to these problems was developed by a Mr. Peter Caltrope who is the founder and visionary behind Smart Growth and the art of sustainable living. Peter Caltrope amid the oil shock of the 1970's saw the future that is today at our doorstep. This future encompassed all of the ailments we see today, a devalued currency, excessive foreign debt, and a dependency on non-renewable and costly fossil fuels. These variables became the inspiration behind his modern green socio-economic models.

Education should be Milford's starting point as it consumes nearly 1/2 of the entire city budget and poses the greatest risk to the future of our city. Our kids are the future of the world we live in, and aside from bringing in green sustainable technology to educate these kids we need to adhere to the principles of those schools who educate with repeated success. The following Paideia Schools quote should express our community’s goals:

“It is our dream that students will ...experience their classrooms as invigorating, even inspiring environments - places they look forward to going to and places they hate to leave. It is our dream that they will come to know themselves as masters of various crafts...It is our dreams that ...they will come to love the process of learning itself... by making it their own.”

In conclusion to this Press Release today we are at a crossroads where the status quo no longer works. Under the economic principles set forth in "Game Theory" it could now be said that the immutable laws of entropy are rudely upon out city.

The economic principles vested in John Nash's "Game theory" in this instance calls out three opposing factions representing their own "rational interests." Those variables are the Teachers, Vs. The Taxpayers, Vs. Parents of Kids. Every group wants its own interests represented to their own ends. Teachers do not want to lose their jobs, Parents do not want their kids education compromised, and taxpayers do not want their taxes raised at unsustainable rates.

"Game Theory" is crystal clear that under the present circumstances the outcome will be a "Zero Sum Game." "Zero Sum" is the outcome where there are no winners much like the futility of two supercomputers playing "Tic Tac Toe" against one another neither side ever wins unless the "Game" is played differently, the circumstances in our town must be changed and a long term Smart Growth approach adopted if we are to solve this problem.

Many times before has Milford been afraid to exact the courage required for positive reform, and every time there has been someone who said "it should not and cannot be done" but to all my critics I once again bring you the words of Nelson Mandela:

"Courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear."

Milford can do that with the present tools available today. We need to act before it’s too late. Under the status quo taxpayers lose their homes and this week out of five houses sold two of those five were foreclosures.

These are indeed very troubling times and moving forward without a plan for reform will erode our local grand list and threaten the rights of property owners. We need to act now if we are to save our city from an uncertain future.

A Post Endorsement Letter From Peter

Dear Milford neighbors,

With Election Day just around the corner on Tuesday November 3rd, I want to remind you of just 2 things.

1. I ask for your vote
My objective in contesting this Mayoral election is to give you the choice to vote for someone who will represent your interests instead of representing the bias of a political party.

As an Independent, I can and will make decisions based on what’s best for Milford and for you.
I have a proven background in leadership and management, meaning I can effect the necessary changes and make decisions based on what is best for our city and its residents.
As your Mayor my aims are:

• Fiscal responsibility
• Educating our children
• Citizen safety
• Business development
• Historical preservation
• Environmental advancement
• Infrastructure improvement

In summary, my principal goal is the betterment of our wonderful city.

I pledge to you that during my term as Mayor, I will always put PEOPLE BEFORE POLITICS. I respectfully ask for your vote on November 3rd to enable me to serve you and serve Milford.


2. Vote!
Why is it so important to vote?

1. VOTING AFFECTS YOU. This election is solely about Milford. The candidate who wins will directly impact YOUR life and YOUR community.
2. VOTING IS YOUR VOICE. Many people complain about the current Mayor and Board of Aldermen, with their irresponsible behaviour and decisions. Well, this is your ONLY chance to do something about it.
3. VOTING IS A RIGHT. Vote because you can. Voting is a ‘right’ which is actually a ‘privilege’ when compared to many places around our globe.

In closing, I request that you consider voting for me, Peter SPALTHOFF, so I can work at making Milford the best city in Connecticut to live, work and raise a family.


Faithfully,
Peter SPALTHOFF

Spalthoff, Milford's Best Candidate For Mayor

Traditionally I have never really been in the practice of endorsing any candidates, but this year with so many great contenders I thought adding my personal opinion might benefit many of you out there who have not had time to do the research or watch the debate videos.

Hard as it is to believe the election is only a few days away, and soon thousands of Milfordites will be storming in the voting booths and voting for their candidates. To help ease the anxiety of looking at a voter card with a bunch of faceless names, I am going to give you my thoughts on each of the candidates.

Before I begin it is important for me to give you my disclaimer, currently I am on the ballot in the First district as the Independent candidate for the board of education. However, my views and opinions are based solely on my own research and personal attendance of the mayoral debates, personally speaking with every candidate, and reading what local newspapers represented about each of them.

My assessment is as Follows:

Genevieve Salvatore: She is a relatively new citizen here in Milford, and many people do not yet really know her very well. Genevieve serves on the Economic Development Commission and practices law here in town.

Genevieve won an overwhelming vote from her party over longtime resident Tim Chaucer and received the endorsement from our U.S. Representative Rosa Delauro. Salvatore was also recently endorsed by the New Haven Reigister over Incumbent Mayor Jim Richetelli.

Her views are very favorable toward a local green economy, and has pledged a policy of zero based budgeting to keep taxes affordable on our cities struggling people. These two views are also complimented by Spalthoff.

Problems I personally have with Ms. Salvatore is her newcomer status, but more grave than that is her friendship with Rosa Delauro and Chris Dodd. In the coming years Milford and the state of Connecticut are expected to have a challenging relationship with a failing federal government. Dodd was recently ostracized over his banking relationships and Delauro has been pushing a bill "The Food Modernization and Safety Act" that would put all our local farms under Corporate and Federal control.

The Democratic Party, has also been involved in the negative and misleading campaign that borders on the actions of an impish spectacle. Their theatrical engagement of the Republicans has not sat well with many people who are concerned about the issues in town.

For these reasons, and even though I think Genevieve is a stellar person, I will always have some discomfort over her parties negative influence, in tandem with her ability to challenge Federal Democratic leaders, especially in a crisis situation.

Jim Richetelli: Last Election I supported Richetelli and had a sign of his on my lawn. He has been our mayor for many terms, and in the past has done a great job in leading our city. Personally I would like to thank him and acknowledge up front all of the great work he has done. However, we vote in the present and we look to the future. The very fact that Jim lost the endorsement of the Register, a paper that endorsed him so many times before was a testament as to the political climate that exists today.

This year Jim has been called out time again over Taxes, educational cuts, historical preservation, business audits, absenteeism, and contract negotiations. Two of the three debates I have been to (in my opinion) have not been very favorable for Richetelli. (You are free to view them on this site just refer to the archives.)

The latest challenge our Mayor experienced was the Democrats and the Republicans engagement of an intensely negative campaign whereby voters are being deliberately confused and misinformed with negative information about their opponents.

Voters I believe have grown tired of this practice and just want to hear the issues and the facts. Jim being the incumbent has a terrific re-election advantage this year, but I personally believe that advantage has been diminished.

Tim Chaucer:Tim is a lifelong resident of Milford, he worked tirelessly trying to support and protect our cities historic properties and open space. Chaucer has been very critical of the destruction of the Cadley House, and the development of the property next to the Milford Library.

Personally I have spoke with Tim and found him to be a sincere person, however, in my opinion, he has a narrow view of interests in our town. Tim is also running as an "Unaffiliated" candidate since he lost the support of his primary political party to Genevieve Salvatore.

Tim took the loss in my view too easily, early on he struggled with the idea of a primary and then opted out instead of standing by his convictions that he was treated unfairly by his party.

Personally I found Chaucer to be a great person with much to offer Milford and even though I think he is the weakest candidate I sincerely hope that he stays involved and continues to fight along with us for what he believes in.

His views on open land purchasing, historic preservation and city planning are supported by all candidates across the board and we will need his expertise on future committees and at council meetings, should he not prevail.

Chaucer can certainly be a unifying force with his broad knowledge on keeping Milford's growth in harmony with our history. Personally I would look forward to Tim's continued involvement in those areas as his message was well received and he certainly proved himself as an asset to our city.

Peter Spalthoff: Peter is my personal favorite, not because he is an Independent but because of his selfless nature, investment in our community, and financial background in understanding debt, contracts, loans and financial instruments.

Of all the candidates in the running Peter has run a very ethical and honest campaign. Peter has pledged transparency in government, and adopted a policy that puts "people first." Every week new letters arrive to our local newspapers in support of Peter. His candidacy as an Independent has been larger than any that I remember in recent memory.

Peter also represents a realistic new choice for the growing number of people in town who have become despondent with the two party system. Peter's list of endorsements is also impressive, and he is the only mayor in CT to receive the official endorsement of the state Independent Party and the Independent American Party.

Peter's skills will be needed in the coming years especially with the 110 Million in financing that will be needed for our school improvements. Peter is also very open minded and works well with others. His most recent post in a political party was the chairman of the Republican Town Committee, but due to his own disappointment with the Republican party decided to reinvigorate the ranks of the Independents here in Milford.

When Peter Made his campaign announcement on the green early this year, he invoked the spirit of the late Charles Iovino. Iovino was the only Independent mayoral candidate in Connecticut's history to win a Mayoral election as a write in candidate.

Your vote this election will count more than before, and I personally hope you will lend that support to Peter Spalthoff My choice for this years Mayor.

Rocco J. Frank Jr.
Milford Daily Blog Contributor

Mayoral Hopefuls Debate Local Environmental Issues

The (Environmental Concerns Coalition) ECC Debate kicked off as scheduled at 6:P.M. all candidates in the running were present and questions were prepared in advance by the ECC moderator.

Candidates had 2 minutes to answer each question, and a rebuttal of their opponents of one Minute. This was the protocol for the first few questions, the next four questions were drawn randomly from a hat and were pre-written by the ECC and selected by each candidate. The audience was also permitted to openly ask questions at the end of the debate.

Of the initial questions asked, the issue of purchasing open land was agreed upon as a good idea by all candidates. The next question regarding Milford's deplorable record on Recycling sparked the most debate.

While the question formulated by the ECC corresponded with the 6% figure as reported in the CT Post Jim Richetelly took issue with the numbers as inaccurate. Richetelly alledged that the number was "under-reported... an error" and held up a copy of the DEP report that he claimed indicated Milford was recycling 12% of its renewable waste not 6%. Richetelli said that Milford is not "last in the state, but doing much better than people believed."

One public question came in regarding the funds to purchase open space, Richetelli exhausted nearly all the money in the open space fund in his latest Naugatuck land deal purchase. The issue of how to pay for this was best addressed by Peter Spalthoff who indicated he would make it a "budget item," and purchase land as part of the routine operations of the town. There was little disagreement to this, since all the candidates agreed that purchasing open space saves Miford's taxpayers money.

There was also debate on adding a paid commissioner to go out and manage the land purchases. Tim Chaucer said that the best candidate for this job would be an "outdoor enthusiast who really knows the town and its land very well."

Each candidate Praised, and addressed, the Clean Energy Roadmap approved by the Board of Aldermen last month. The plan lays out steps the city should take to become environmentally sound. The Roadmap was authored by a community task force and is a step by step plan for city officials to follow.

When it came time for the audience to ask questions, the first question was regarding public transportation. All candidates vowed to improve public transportation and do their part to make certain Milford has more bus stops and convenient locations to get people to and from their local destinations.

The next question from the audience got interesting because I do not think the moderator expected an off topic attack of Richetelli. The man who asked the question specifically addressed it to Jim. He started by saying he made several unanswered telephone calls to Jim, then followed up with more unanswered e-mails. Than after contacting his aide was able to get to talk to him.

Expressing disgust over his experience, he then charged that he did not get the tax decrease that Jim advertised in his "mail piece" that he held up to the audience. He said "I am an engineer, and I am very good with numbers. I looked at my old bill and compared it to my new one... where is my savings!" The moderator told the gentleman that this was an environmental forum not to get "off topic." she said that perhaps "the candidates could answer those types of questions after the debate."

The candidates nonetheless did answer the gentleman's question, and Richetelli stood up and told the gentleman "everyone in Milford received a 2.6% tax decrease plain and simple." Geneveve Salvatore reminded the man that the tax decrease was courtesy of the Democratic led Board of Alderman and that Richetelli's rejected budged actually would have raised his taxes.

The event lasted over an hour, and all the Candidates for Mayor remained long after the meeting and respectfully spoke to the public. However it is important to note, that what is mentioned above are just some notable highlights. MGAT Channel 79 on Cablevision did videotape the event and it will be made available to the public in its entirety in the next week or so and I recommend we all watch it. The more informed you are the better choice you will make come election day.

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Video Per Commenters Request
Double Click Video if Cropped
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Ken De Ruoy Shares His Comments Post Mayoral Debate

Last night I attended the Milford Mayoral Debate just like many residents.

I went in with no predetermination since ultimately I am a Milfordite first and foremost, above any political affiliation.

I believe Chaucer is a decent man, but his 1 or 2 issue platform and obvious lack of knowledge about important issues had me embarrassed for him. By now, he must’ve realized that his candidacy was not a good idea.

Sorry to say it, but Salvatore lost me when she criticized EVERY city employee for doing lousy job. That was arrogant and callous. She also sounded contrived and rehearsed, and lacked feeling for what she was saying.

Even more sad was “my boy” Richetelli. His time has come and gone. Rehearsed and obviously scared of attacks, he opened by subliminally explaining (i.e. apologizing for) his addiction-caused hiatus, and ended explaining (i.e. apologizing for) his ignorance concerning the historic Cadley House destruction. In between, he blamed red-tape for failing the city when it needed a leader (i.e. Building Department reform), and failing to affirmatively lead on practically everything else.

Lastly, I saw a man with a vision and passion. Peter Spalthoff spoke on the issues with knowledge and common-sense. He was unrehearsed, upstanding and his love for Milford shone through. I admire what this man represents and what he will do for Milford . May God grant us the common-sense to vote him in as mayor, so that we have the right person in charge of our city and our future.

Kenneth De Ruoy
Milford

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Letters to the editor can be submitted by anyone and will be published subject to some simple rules: Letters must be 500 words or less, well written, and not contain expletives or advertisements, your name, address, and phone number must be included. Letters may be edited that are too long, and published at the discretion of the editor and relevance to our community issues.

Milford Mayoral Debates Draw Unusually Large Crowd

For nearly 30 years the Plymouth Men's Club has been hosting the towns Mayoral Debates, and the debate moderator said that this years debate was among the largest in Recent memory.

The debate also had four candidates, Tim Chaucer, Genevieve Salvatore, Jim Richetelli, and Peter Spalthoff. Each candidate arrived with their own contingent of family members and campaign supporters adding to the unusually high number of attendees.

The event moderator had the local Boy Scouts hand out index cards and pencils, the audience wrote their questions on the index cards and submitted them to the moderator. The moderator grouped the questions together and asked the candidates the most popular ones.

One such question was, historic preservation and the destruction of the Cadley House. Richetelli received the most amount of fire on this question as all three candidates were remarkably upset with the demolition of that property. Richetelli repeated what he always has, that the property was beyond preservation but added that he "regretted" they way it happened and in hindsight would have involved Milford's Historical Preservation Committee.

The Building department and the Controversial Kimball Report was also a topic of discussion. Peter Spalthoff who is currently putting an addition on his 26 Broad Street property said there are many great employees in the building department and what they need is the proper leadership, technology, and support to get the job done correctly. He opined that spending $40,000.00 of the taxpayers money to point out why the department was not working was an imprudent use of funds.

Salvatore agreed and said that under her watch the building department would have been "more welcoming" and she would have added "Customer Service" to the equation. Salvatore said that she would give the people of Milford the "Services the pay for."

On the question of improving Milford, all candidates agreed that purchasing open space is a "good Idea" Spalthoff and Chaucer however were more concerned with the fact that the sidewalk by Harrison's Hardware has caused numerous injuries to pedestrians and questioned Richetelli on why it took so many public injuries and four years to repair it. Richetelli cited that the rules and regulations surrounding those kinds of issues are complex. That the city must follow legal protocol, notify the owners prior to work and place liens on offending properties a process that takes time.

Other public concerns were over flooding, and Ms. Salvatore said that a person she met while out campaigning has two separate residences because her place at the beach is impassable at high tide because the water submerges her driveway. At low tide she returns home, at high tide she goes to her apartment in Orange. Ms. Salvatore said that she would help alleviate flooding concerns at the beach to assist people in need.

Richetelli rebutted, saying that much of the Milford waterfront is below sea level and when you purchase a house at the beach you run that kind of risk. Richetelli also blamed unusually high tides for the flooding and said the he has been aware of these tantamount issues for a while.

On the issue of Eisenhower Park, Spalthoff questioned the logic behind spending money on studies only later to waste that money by walking away from it. Richetelli blamed the economy, and called many of the project cancellations as necessary given the most difficult economic climate he has ever experienced as Mayor. He also added that his opposition to the Jonathan Law bonding was also another difficult decision.

Another question regarding pensions came up, and Chaucer accused Richetelli of over reporting the health of that program. Chaucer alleged that Milford's pension fund lost more money than Fairfied's after the Madoff Scandal. Richetelli accused Chaucer of not having his facts straight and said the pension fund is over funded by 125% but those were the figures before the market declined admitting that the number may be different today.

Spalthoff cited an official report expressing concern over the cities pension fund and alleged that this years tax decrease will have to be made up in next years budget. Spalthoff said that the people of Milford got duped, because next year the break we received will have to be compounded to fulfill the contractual obligations the city entered into.

Spalthoff said that when the city goes looking for the money and cannot find it, the only alternative will be "higher taxes."

The debate concluded with a summary from each of the candidates, and each read what appeared to be a carefully prepared statement to the audience. Richetelli stood on his record, Salvatore promised Change, Chaucer offered historic preservation. Spalthoff spoke entirely without a written statement, and promised to make Milford more business friendly citing over eighty small businesses (he counted) that shut down along the Post Road.

Reviews from the audience were mixed, many came to support their candidate and therefore were not swayed by the debate while others appreciated the opportunity afforded them to question each of these candidates on the local issues in town.

The entire debate was recorded and the video will be posted here when made available to me.

Each of the candidates have their websites listed below for more information.

Jim Richetelli Peter Spalthoff
Genevieve Salvatore Tim Chaucer

Local Business Owner Chastises Chaucer

Tim Chaucer was out campaigning on New Haven Ave. over the weekend and one of his stops was at a local gas station at 345 New Haven Ave. This gas station is owned and operated by the Quick Food Mart

Tim asked the owner if he could put a sign up on the corner of his property. When the owner explained to him that he did not take kindly to solicitors, and also did not wish to engage in partisan politics out of respect for his customers, Chaucer (and his associate) stormed out.

The following day, Mr. Azari contacted the Milford Daily Blog and said that Tim sent him a rather upsetting letter alleging that his grass was high and his property overgrown. While Mr. Chaucer was not reached for comment, a photographer was deployed to take a photo (above) of the property in question in an effort to verify Chaucers claim.

The photo speaks for itself and shows the landscaping of the property shortly after the confrontation was made and Chaucer’s request to place a sign denied. You decide, is this “sour grapes” or a “legitimate gripe?”

The Milford Independent Party Celebrates Its Grand Opening With A Surprise Endorsement

The Milford Independent Party was standing room only at its 26 Broad Street location, the families and friends of all the candidates attended what was a very informative and spectacular event.

Most notable guests included a surprise visit from The Senior Agent of the Connecticut Independent Party Mike Terlesca. Mike Telesca, added the State Party endorsement of Peter Spalthoff to his already growing list of local endorsements.

Mike Telesca and the Independent Party Chairman rarely endorses candidates, but after getting to know Peter he drafted the following impressive letter below.

Mr. Peter Spalthoff
26 Broad Street
Milford, Ct 06460

Dear Peter,

As the state Agent of the Connecticut Independent Party, I am proud to have been part of Milford’s independent movement since the first meeting was held here at your office some six months ago.

It has been indeed an honor and a privilege to work and know an individual such as yourself who has found the hidden secrets of successful leadership. Your principle of “people not politics” is in fact an important principle that the Ct Independent Party tries to instill in all of its candidates.

Over the last several months we have taken the time to get to know who you are, and clearly without a doubt you are among the pillars of Milford Ct. Your past/present leadership positions as President or Chairman of so many local organizations and charities are an incredible testament to what kind of honorable and selfless individual you are.

While the Independent Party has endorsed many candidates, few rise to the level of commitment, professionalism and personal success that you have attained in your community. Therefore, it is my distinct honor to formally endorse you as our Independent candidate for Milford Mayor in the 2009 election cycle.

The Independent Party and all of its resources in your area will be encouraged to help you achieve an election victory come this November. In the meanwhile, feel free to count on our advisory board to assist you in any of your present/future campaign endeavors.


Sincerely;

Mike Telesca
Agent For Candidate Endorsement
CT Independent Party State Central

For those who do not know Mr. Telesca, he started the Independent Party in Waterbury Ct, and has gone on to win several local city positions for his party. Recently Mr. Teslesca was asked to consult for the state of Connecticut regarding the Green Party Lawsuit against the Citizens election campaign.

The Fledgling state program was remarkably impressed with Mr. Telesca because with his leadership last year he helped qualify the only 3rd. Party candidates in the state of Connecticut for public funding.

Mr. Telesca is a dynamo in the realm of third party politics in the state of Connecticut and his endorsement of Peter Spalthoff as the only Mayoral endorsement in the state of Connecticut is truly a great compliment to Peter.

The state party is now committing its resources to help Peter win this election come this November.

(Above Photo of Mike Telesca (L)and Peter Spalthoff (R))

Milford's History Being "Demolished By Neglect."

A once-graceful, but deteriorating Gulf Street home is drawing the attention of preservationists and city officials determined to save it from "demolition by neglect.''

The 1890 neo-Colonial house at 417 Gulf St., owned by Nicholas Riggione, has missing windows that allow birds, rain and wind to damage the interior, officials said. "It is the most efficient way to allow a property to deteriorate," City Historian Richard Platt said.

Riggione met Platt at the property recently and reportedly indicated that he has plans to repair it, but the city historian said the owner offered no specifics or timetable. Riggione did not return calls for comment Monday.

The 1.6-acre property that includes the nearly 4,000-square-foot house has an assessed value of $922,000, 70 percent of its market value. It is near Gulf Beach and would fall within the boundaries of a proposed Gulf Street Historic District.

Linda Stock, the city's zoning code enforcement officer, notified Riggione by letter in March of several violations on the property, and set a deadline for them to be corrected. But nothing appears to have been done, officials said.

Platt and other preservationists are still smarting over the loss in 2007 of the Merwin-Cadley House on Gulf Pond, and what they feel was a circumventing of regulations meant to protect historic structures. A developer claimed that the house, one of the oldest in Milford, was being "dismantled," not demolished, but few of the original elements were ultimately reused.

"This is happening again right before our eyes, and it is clearly an economic development issue,'' said Genevieve Salvatore, chairwoman of the city Economic Development Commission. "People are coming to Milford for its quaint New England charm, and we're letting it go by the board."

Salvatore, the Democratic candidate for mayor, and an aide surveyed the property from an adjoining yard and took photos Thursday.

The issue is within the purview of her commission because of its impact on tourism and through its Neigborhood Preservation initiative, Salvatore said.

Lisa DiLullo, aide to Mayor James L. Richetelli Jr., said the mayor ordered a structural inspection of the house and no safety issues were found. The debris visible through the open windows is from interior renovations that are being made after Riggione received the required permits, DiLullo said.

Platt said that he will submit to the Board of Aldermen next month a proposed ordinance that would increase protection for historic homes and commercial buildings. Among other things the measure would make a legal distinction between dismantling and demolition.

Shorten to 50 years the age of a building eligible for protection and require notice to all adjacent property owners when a demolition permit is issued for an historic structure. Platt's legislation would also create a Historic Review Board to consider such permits.

The Gulf Street house is listed on the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation's list of "threatened'' properties.

CLICK HERE FOR ORIGINAL FRANK JULIANO STORY

Milford's Democratic Party Officially Split On Mayor

Tim Chaucer has officially decided to forgo a Democratic primary. Instead he will be a brave "lone Democrat." Chaucer who was recently "snubbed" by the Milford Democratic Town Committee, sought to avail himself by forcing a primary.

However, the bosses of the Democratic Town committee saw fit to do things their way. In one evening and by an exclusive members only vote, chose the less "well known" candidate of their choosing. The Democrats decided on a gamble that their candidate Genevieve Salvatore , has enough charm, charisma, and debate to show Milford she is "a class act." The Milford Democrats are counting on her skills as a lawyer, in selling Milford their "new face."

Chaucer, rightfully has been concerned with Genevieve Salvatore's affiliation with "questionable" developers who may circumvent business and political ethics with money and "high priced" attorneys. Chaucer represents a different breed of Democrat, the first (in a long time) to stand up against his party and engage in a de-facto protest.

Chaucer is currently very popular with many Democrats in his district, and around Milford many know him for his contributions in preserving Milford's Heritage.

Peter Spalthoff the Independent Candidate for Mayor is also expected to get a large draw, and with more Great Democratic names in the races... call it just when I say "eat your words" Genevieve it is no longer you against "three republicans" looks like the playing field just got a little more leveled and every vote now counts four times.

Tim Chaucer Initiates A Democratic Primary

For the first time in recent memory there will be a primary to determine who will become the Democratic nominee for mayor.

Timothy Chaucer said he has begun circulating petitions throughout the city, and is “well on his way” to achieving the 450 registered voters’ signatures to force a primary Sept. 15.

Chaucer, a longtime city preservationist, lost the Democratic nomination at the party’s convention last week, by a vote of 81-9, to Economic Development Commission Chairwoman Genevieve Salvatore.

The deadline for Chaucer to certify the signatures is Aug. 12. The winner will take on four-term Republican Mayor James L. Richetelli Jr. and Milford Independent Party mayoral candidate Peter Spalthoff.

“I am working as hard as I can to get these signatures,” Chaucer said. “It’s not an easy task.”

Chaucer said he is committed to seeking a primary because he is the only candidate for “open government.”

“It’s what my campaign is all about,” Chaucer said. “An awful number of people are not convinced that everything is as it should be.”

Chaucer, who describes himself as a New England fiscal conservative, said he believes preserving the city’s character is vital.

“Milford can continue to be a tremendous tourist attraction,” Chaucer said.

Chaucer said he does not personally know Salvatore except that she is a practicing lawyer, and only recently became a registered Democrat. He also said her law firm has represented the “kind of interests” residents may not want in the mayor’s office, including large construction companies.

Salvatore said she’s had many clients and is “proud of each and every one of them.” She said she will not practice law if elected mayor, and vowed to run a “clean campaign.”

“I applaud both for their interest and their willingness to make the sacrifices necessary to run for the office. In the end, Genevieve earned a resounding victory,” said Democratic Town Chairman Richard Smith. “If Democrats are to win in November, it is now time we come together around the issues we believe in and the candidate we’ve selected.”

In 1987, Chaucer forced and won a primary, eventually getting a seat on the Planning and Zoning Board.

“I know Mr. Chaucer was talking about a primary and I understand that initial inclination. Still, knowing how important the issues are to Tim, I trust he will put aside his personal feelings and work for the good of our city and the Democratic Party. I look forward to having Tim’s help during this election,” Smith added.

Original Story NH REGISTER Brian McReady

Salvatore Wins Dem's Support Chaucer Demands Primary

Economic Development Commission Chairwoman Genevieve Salvatore easily secured her party’s mayoral nomination Wednesday at the Democratic Town Committee convention.

Salvatore, a local lawyer whose first foray into city politics was her appointment to the Economic Development Commission this year, secured the nomination by a vote of 81 to nine.

“I am taken aback and humbled by the support,” Salvatore said. “This year we are going to finish what we started two years ago. We are going to take back City Hall.”

Salvatore was challenged by Timothy Chaucer, a longtime city preservationist.

Chaucer, who failed in his attempt to gain his party’s backing for mayor, said Wednesday there is a “99 percent chance” he will pursue the nomination and force a primary.

Chaucer said he was not given an opportunity to speak in front of the 1st and 4th District committees, and predicted he would fair better at a primary than he did at the convention.

Chaucer forced a primary in 1987, eventually winning it and general election to become a member of the Planning and Zoning Board.

“The rank and file Democrats know who I am, they know what I stand for,” Chaucer said.

Under state law, if a primary is necessary, it will be held Sept. 15, said City Clerk Alan H. Jepson.

Jepson, who announced in May he will not seek re-election, was first elected city clerk in 1987 and has routinely enjoyed cross-endorsement.

The Democrats chose state Rep. Richard Roy over PZB Vice Chairwoman Kim Rose to replace Jepson as their nominee for city clerk.

New to the ticket for the Board of Aldermen this year is current chairman of the Police Commission, the Rev. Carleton Giles, and Luke Lynch from the 4th and 1st districts respectively.

The Republican slate will be set at its nominating convention Tuesday at 7 p.m. at City Hall.

Two Republicans were vying for the GOP mayoral nomination. But Wednesday, Republican Town Committee Chairman Tom Jagodzinski announced that former aldermanic Chairman Tom Beirne is no longer challenging four-term Mayor James L. Richetelli Jr. for the Republican nomination.

Bierne confirmed he has withdrawn from the race.

Milford residents will also have a third-party choice in November. The Milford Independent Party, with former GOP Town Committee Chairman Peter Spalthoff at the head of the ticket, plans to run candidates for most positions.

James Tinley NH Register

ORIGINAL STORY

Tim Chaucer Demands Change In Milford

The city would look very different today if Tim Chaucer were running things.

In formally announcing his candidacy for mayor Monday evening, the Democrat listed several instances when his intervention -- even as a private citizen -- got large development plans rejected.

"When the current administration formulated plans to consolidate our two geographically balanced high schools, we formed Milford Citizens Against Mega Schools," he said during a rally on the City Hall steps.

"We showed how consolidating was not only a bad idea educationally, but would be more costly to the city taxpayer. We won the battle."

Chaucer said he opposed a proposal in the 1980s to reroute Gulf Street so that a developer and his daughter would have homes with a better view. "I am proud that we protected the beautiful vista from the Indian burial ground on Gulf Pond when elected officials did not have the city's best interests at heart."

The retired history teacher reminded the 15 supporters at the rally that the historic Merwin-Cadley homestead on Gulf Pond was torn down last year despite assurances by Mayor James L. Richetelli Jr. that it would be saved. A developer paid less than the market value in exchange for a conservation easement that was to protect the property, Chaucer said.

The candidate said he opposed a plan to improve Eisenhower Park because it would have meant charging fees to residents to recoup the cost. "The park is there for
everyone to enjoy, for free," he said.

"And it certainly doesn't need $20 million of so-called improvements."

City officials were "asleep at the switch'' when the Langner property next to the library became available several years ago, Chaucer said.

"It was a park-like setting with black walnut trees, and it could have been acquired to add to the recreation complex next to it," he said. "Instead, there are condos on it now and parking at our ball fields is at a premium."

Chaucer said that he would foster open government by, among other measures, putting a logbook in the mayor's office that anyone could review. "It's transparency. We ought to know who our mayor is spending his time with." He'd also consider periodic public hearings on the operation of city departments and to hear residents' complaints.

The candidate admitted he faces an uphill battle at the Democratic nominating convention Wednesday night. Most party leaders seem to have promised their support to Genevieve Salvatore, currently the chairman of the Economic Development Commission. Chaucer would not rule out a primary.

Salvatore said, "It isn't surprising to me that there are more people interested in this race. Many people in Milford are dissatisfied with the status quo and we all agree that it is a good time for a change in leadership. While it's great that others are concerned about Milford's future, I am confident that I will be nominated by the Democratic Town Convention this week.

"I have a strong vision for our city's future and I believe that such vision, together with strong leadership, will be crucial for our success in November and beyond."

Richetelli said he is running on his eight-year record in office.

Peter Spalthoff, the Independent Party mayoral candidate, said, "Tim announcing that he is running for mayor simply goes to my belief that the citizens of Milford can only be the winners with more choices of candidates. There is no reason in the world why there should only be two candidates for the position."

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About Chaucer: Timothy Chaucer is the former chairman of the Milford Conservation Comission and a former elected member of the Milford Planning and Zoning Board. n He founded Milford Citizens Against Mega Schools several years ago to fight attempts to consolidate Jonathan Law and Joseph A. Foran high schools. n Chaucer has been program chairman for the Milford Historical Society for the past five years, and is nominating chairman for the Milford Preservation Trust. n He is the founder and director of the Milford Marine Institute Inc., which has educated more than 1,000 Milford children since 1983 about the value of salt marshes, woodlands, farmlands and meadows. n He is a retired high school and college instructor of American history, as well as criminal and civil law, and retains his state teaching certification

ORIGINAL ARTICLE BY FRANK JULIANO

Tim Chaucer Becomes 5th Contender For Milford Mayor

Another mayoral hopeful is poised to throw his hat into the ring: Local historian Tim Chaucer said this week that he plans to seek the Democratic nomination to run for mayor in November.

Chaucer, who has been involved in historical and land preservation issues for years in Milford, makes mayoral hopeful number five for the 2009 election.

Incumbent Mayor James Richetelli Jr., a Republican, has announced he plans to seek another term. Former Board of Aldermen Chairman Tom Beirne has announced that he’d like to run on the GOP ticket.

Peter Spalthoff, a former Republican Town Committee chairman who joined the Milford Independent Party, plans to run on the Independent ticket.

Democrats already seemed to be lining up behind Genevieve Salvatore, a lawyer and relative newcomer to the Milford political scene, who announced her intention to run on the Democratic ticket. Last week, Chaucer penned a letter to the Democratic Town Committee stating his interest in seeking the party nomination.

“I want to run because I think I can do the best job for the city of Milford,” Chaucer said. “I’ve lived in Milford my entire adult life. I’ve always said it’s a city worth saving.”

Chaucer said he identifies with the city’s historic beauty.

“Sometimes the chief executives we’ve had don’t get the real historic significance of the city,” Chaucer said. “I think people love Milford who live here because of the beauty, the beaches, the green, the woodlands, the wetlands, and yet we see these being chipped away. There ought to be more efforts to preserve the beauty.”

Chaucer also said taxes are a huge issue for him, especially because he had to sell his Gulf Pond home because taxes soared.

“I have many questions about the assessor’s office, and I know for a fact that there are people who live on direct waterfront in Milford who pay nothing in real estate taxes,” Chaucer wrote in a letter to Democratic Town Committee Chairman Rich Smith. “I know of other cases where people pay too much or too little.”

Early this week, the head of the Democratic Town Committee said he hadn’t read Chaucer’s letter of intent yet.

“He made overtures months ago,” Smith said. “I’d have to talk to Tim and see what he thinks the issues are. I’ve not had an opportunity to have that conversation yet.”

Smith said the nomination process is fairly straightforward. The Democratic Town Committee will vote for a nominee at a convention July 22. “Whoever has the most votes of the delegates will win the nomination,” Smith said.

Chaucer said he would primary for the nomination if the committee chooses Salvatore.

Chaucer notes that he has lived in Milford all his life, while Salvatore has not, and he is a life-long Democrat, while Salvatore was a Republican until about four years ago.

Salvatore says it’s true she is a relative newcomer to Milford — she’s been here since 2002 — but she doesn’t see that as a negative.

“Many people are new to Milford like me,” she said, “and the fact is that I chose Milford as the place I wanted to raise my son. So I feel I’m as vested as anyone.”

On being a fairly new Democrat, she said she became disenchanted with the Republican Party both nationally and locally.

“I said I need to make a change,” Salvatore said. “I wanted to make sure my political affiliation was aligned with where my heart was.”

Salvatore is chairman of the Milford Economic Development Commission and has said she wants to seek the party nomination because she sees “substantive opportunities to improve the way our city government functions, to break out of the business as usual cycle and introduce new, most cost effective and efficient ways to manage our city government.”

She has said the public sector has not been as innovative as the private sector in streamlining and improving the way it does business.

“Over the past eight years, the city’s budget has grown at an astronomic rate,” Salvatore said when she announced her intentions about a month ago. “Much of this, I believe, could have been avoided by more prudent and purposeful focus on driving the cost of doing business down while at the same time improving services.”

Story a reprint from Milford Mirror